The biggest metal bands issue a state of the nation address in Metal Hammer issue 300

This month, Metal Hammer is celebrating our 300th issue, and we wanted to do something big. Like, REALLY big. So, we united the biggest and best names in our world today for the ultimate roundtable. A heavy metal debate to end all debates. The bands you care about, together, talking about the issues affecting our scene today. This is the Metal Hammer State Of The Nation. This is Hammer 300. And here’s who we got involved…

Body Count frontman and activist Ice-T weighs in on why metal can take a stand.

The legend that is Joey Jordison breaks down how metal can regain its shock factor.

We've also go on tour with Prophets Of Rage, uncover the heart of darkness with Chelsea Wolfe, and look at the work of the Sophie Lancaster Foundation, ten years after her murder.

There was also one very large black cloud that hung over the making of this issue. As Hammer was approaching press, we were hit by the shocking news of Chester Bennington's death. So, we've dedicated this month's cover to him, and this issue also features our tribute.